Baby Noah’s Journey

Several weeks ago, in my first group meeting held with all the different medical teams at Westmead Children’s Hospital, I floated the idea of having Noah home by Christmas, notwithstanding any deterioration in his condition.

I’m grateful for the doctors and nurses who worked together to that aim, and on 17 December, baby Noah was finally discharged after spending the first 7+ months of his life at Westmead Children’s Hospital.

I’ve attached 2 videos here, one of which is a slideshow of photos taken since Noah’s birth, and the second, shot and compiled by Ian Chow (a second edit, with text added by me in some of the photos – the first edit was shared on Ian’s Vimeo channel a week or so back).

No amount of words or images could do justice to the gratitude I feel for the staff at Westmead and for the public support I’ve received especially via Twitter (many from people I may never meet in person). I thank you all for keeping me going in the worst of times.

I’m loathe to single out people for praise but it’d be remiss of me not to mention Dr. Sandra Heck at Grace Ward who was instrumental, I believe, in saving Noah’s life in more than one instance. Also nurse Rebecca (who couldn’t stop saying “oh my goodness” in the homecoming video) – Noah’s first diary entries were by her, and her care and attention towards him during his first 3 months were not unnoticed. And of course, Cheryl, Noah’s Ward Granny, a volunteer who was a retired nurse herself, for spending Mondays and Tuesdays with him the last couple of months of his stay at Westmead.

Noah’s journey is by no means over; he has pulmonary hypertension and respiratory problems and has endless hospital appointments ahead of him. For now, however, I am grateful to be able to end the year with this critical chapter of his life behind us.

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15 thoughts on “Baby Noah’s Journey”

Absolutely precious (second) video. I’m so happy and excited for the both of you. Noah fought strong and hard against all that was thrown his way and your determination to let him fight is truly admirable! Wishing you all the very best for the future ahead.

Jackie I am a mail order customer and love receiving your emails especially about Noah. He is definitely here for a purpose – what a journey – he is blessed. All the best to you and Noah in 2013 …Mike C – Penrith

Okay, so I just cried, a lot… mainly because seeing his little scar post-heart surgery made me look down at my own. I had an atrial septal defect repaired when I was four. I hope you guys had an awesome Christmas, and that Noah (beautiful name, by the way – gah!) continues to improve. Love from England!

Thank you very much Jessi, it was the best Christmas ever, hands down! Noah continues to be a joy and whilst he still needs round-the-clock care, his last follow-up at the cardiac specialist’s has been encouraging :) Btw I post quite a few photos of him on Instagram if you’d like to check it out – http://instagram.com/jackiemsydney .

Dear Jackie,
I stumbled upon your blog while looking for info about schools in Seremban; we are in the midst of relocating from KL to Seremban. I am totally intrigued with your amazing life and have great respect for you and your son’s journey, having been a single mom myself years ago albeit the medical hardships. Noah is here for a reason, he will open your eyes and heart and teach you so much about love…he chose you as you are special. Please keep up the superb job and stay you.